A forum for associates to speak out about law firm issues

Citrix and the remote office

Recently, I’ve received a number of queries such as “Why are there no new posts recently?” “Can you post more entries?” Well, after being on the road, I’m now back. By the way, I have also set up a new e-mail account so that readers can ask questions privately or contact me directly. It’s associatespeak@gmail.com. I will do my best to respond to e-mails within a few days unless I am traveling.

Speaking of travels, I thought this might be a good time to discuss the remote office. If you’re currently an associate working at Biglaw, you probably are familiar with Citrix or some equivalent meta-frame software that allows you to access your work computer from home. Whether you use a work laptop that locks into a work station, or a desktop computer at work that you’d like to access when you are at home or elsewhere, Citrix gives you the flexibility of accessing not only the documents saved on your work computer but the firm’s server. It’s designed to ensure that whatever you see on your screen at work can also appear on your screen at home.

I’ve heard the argument that lawyers want to leave their work where it belongs; namely, at work. When they go home, the last thing they want to do is log in and have the “freedom” to do more work at home. That makes sense when you work a normal 9 to 6 job. Do your work at work, and go home and relax.

But what happens if you have to work late? If there’s a brief that needs to be prepared and you’re working up against a real deadline? Do you really want to be at the office at 2 a.m.? If you have to work, wouldn’t it be much better to prepare that motion while in your comfy PJs?

This week, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of the remote office, and how it can be used to provide you with a lifestyle option that is at least partially within your control.